Car Care Tips for Import Vehicles

If you are a lover of luxury vehicles, then you are most likely an import car owner. Import automobiles are known for their specialty features, inimitable qualities, and aesthetic distinctiveness. On top of this, their performance and drivability are among the finest in the market. This and more are reasons why import car owners are urged to seek specialized care, as well as devote duteous attention to the maintenance and upkeep of their valued automobile.

Continue reading to learn exactly how to accomplish these import auto care goals!

Import Car Maintenance and Repair Indianapolis
Import Car Maintenance and Repair Indianapolis 317-571-0800

Exterior Import Car Care

When it comes to the cosmetic appearance of your vehicle, regular is the word to keep in mind. Routine washes and waxing will ensure the vehicle’s coat retains its original luster and shine. It will also provide protection against harsh outdoor elements and bad weather.

Note that routine washes and waxes are recommended, not frequent ones. Too much washing and over waxing can strip the paint and fade the coat color over time. Be sure to know the appropriate routine maintenance schedule for your make or model import car to ensure accurate care and preservation.

Interior Import Auto Maintenance

Aside from the aesthetic maintenance of your import vehicle, careful consideration of maintaining the insides is just as crucial. Regular scheduled care also includes the upkeep of the engine and all other inner components of the vehicle. It is highly recommended to consult a professional import auto repair specialist for details about your individual car’s required maintenance. A licensed Carmel Indianapolis import auto mechanic retains the knowledge, experience, and equipment to restore and maintenance an import car effectively.

Auto Repair and Parts Replacement for Import Vehicles

If your import car needs repaired or have a part replaced, be sure to use genuine replacement parts.  Foreign vehicles are delicate, and require superior auto parts for quality performance. Using bad parts can cause costly damages down the road, and harm the value of the car altogether. Be sure all auto parts being installed on your import vehicle are manufacturer approved.

DIY Import Car Inspections

As you drive your import automobile every day, stay in tune with its performance and activity. Listen to the engine and see if you notice anything unusual or off. Also, inspect your car tires periodically for wear and tear.  These are some of the best ways to detect damages prematurely, to avoid further harm and repairs. 

Looking for a German factory trained mechanic for your import or European vehicle? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for European auto services in Carmel, Indianapolis, Indiana. We work on all European vehicles, but specialize in BMW, Mercedes, Volkswagen, Porsche, and Audi repairs and services.

You Should Also Like:

Routine Automotive Services Recommended Just for European Vehicles
When Do I Need to Change the Fluids in My Car?
How to Get Transmission Repair for European Cars Cheaper Than the Dealer

European Automotive Repair Carmel
European Automotive Repair Carmel Indiana 317-577-0800

When Should I Change the Coolant in My Car?

No matter the time of year, coolant is an essential automotive fluid for all make and model vehicles. But when the summer heat approaches, the need to keep your car’s engine cool and running smoothly is even more pressing. Not sure if your car’s coolant needs to be refilled or replaced yet?

Continue below to learn everything you need to know about radiator flushes, coolant replacement, and factory scheduled maintenance.

European Auto Service Carmel Indianapolis
European Auto Service Carmel Indianapolis 317-571-0800

Facts About Your Car’s Coolant

Engine coolant goes by many names, including radiator fluid, radiator coolant, or antifreeze. No matter what you call it, engine coolant is one of the most vital car fluids for any vehicle. It is a combination of antifreeze and water (usually a 50/50 mix), and serves a number of purposes for a car.

First, it runs through a vehicle’s radiator to remove any excess heat and prevent the engine from overheating. Next, since it contains antifreeze chemicals, it prevents it from freezing up in cold temperatures. But also, engine coolant prevents corrosion and works as a lubricant to the water pump and other internal workings.

So, as you can see, radiator fluid is very important for a car or truck to operate safely and effectively. Continue reading to learn when your vehicles engine coolant should be changed, as well as, factory car maintenance scheduling, and more!

What You Need to Know About Radiator Fluid Flushes

Coolant Flushes

Changing or replacing the radiator fluid in your vehicle is referred to as coolant flush. Regular coolant flushes are vital for your vehicle because it inhibits corrosion, prevents over-heating, and provides lubrication to the internal workings of your engine’s water pump, radiator, and heater core.

Dirty or Discolored Coolant

To properly identify when your coolant is dirty, you must first know what the color of the fluid is when brand new. The primary colors of engine coolant are yellow, orange, green, and black. Check the color of your radiator fluid once every week. When this color starts to change, you know it’s time to change your radiator fluid. But the most noticeable sign that it is time to replace the coolant is when your engine starts to overheat. The temperature gauge on your car’s dashboard will tell you how hot the engine is getting, and if you start to see smoke, it’s gone too far!

Overheating Engines

Never operate a vehicle with an overheating engine. Not only is this extremely dangerous, it causes significant damage to the engine. This can result in a costly repair, engine replacement, or even a totaled vehicle. As soon as you are aware your engine is overheating, take it to an auto so immediately and have it serviced.

Regular Fluids Changes

All fluids should be changed, flushed, and replaced regularly for all vehicles. The general factory car maintenance schedule is every 3,000 miles or 6 months, whichever comes first. This includes motor oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, battery fluid, windshield wiper fluid, and in some cases, even transfer case lubricants. But engine coolant does not need to be replaced this often. Most manufacturers suggest flushing the coolant every 24,000 to 36,000 miles, or once every 2 to 3 years. But if you are driving in hot climates or long distances regularly, then once per year is a better schedule.

How to Learn More About Car Care for Your Make and Model Vehicle

Consult a licensed automotive service and repair technician for information regarding your make and model vehicle’s factory maintenance schedule. An ASE-licensed mechanic will have up-to-date knowledge and information for all make and model cars and trucks.

Does your luxury import or European vehicle require some professional car maintenance or repair? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for factory scheduled car maintenance in Carmel, Indianapolis, Indiana.

You Should Also Read:

The Seven Essential Automotive Fluids Every Vehicle Needs
Why You Should Take Routine Oil Changes Seriously
How to Correct an Overheating Car Engine

European Automotive Repair Carmel
European Automotive Repair Carmel Indiana 317-577-0800

Common Technical Problems with Mini Coopers

Mini Coopers are convenient and fun to drive, offering a wide selection of amenities and performance advantages. Previously owned by British Motor Corporation, Mini Coopers are currently produced by Bavarian Motor Works (BMW). They come in several different models, each providing a unique driving experience, including 2 doors, 4 doors, hatchbacks, and even convertibles.

Mini Coopers range in price from $10,000 to $30,000 depending on the year, mileage, and condition, making them an affordable, high-quality driving option. But many owners might experience some preemptive buyers’ remorse if they come across some electrical issues known to occur in Mini Coopers.

Continue reading to learn about some common technical problems associated with Mini Coopers, and who to trust for quality Mini Cooper repair.

BMW Mini Cooper Repair Carmel Indiana
BMW Mini Cooper Repair Carmel Indiana 317-571-0800

Common Mini Cooper Malfunctions

Mini Coopers are great vehicles and even better investments, but they are known to experience some distinctive technical issues. For example, Mini Coopers are prone to clutch failure if they are driven too aggressively in the beginning. Due to their intricate and delicate design, clutch systems can burn out in a short amount of time if not cared for properly.

Also, transmission issues are common in automatic Mini Coopers. This may be due to the fact that manufacturers suggest that transmission fluid changes are not necessary, when in fact, they are vital to the performance and quality of all vehicles. So many Mini Cooper owners will skip the transmission fluid replacement part of their schedule car maintenance, only to experience transmission problems down the line.

There have also been several reports of Mini Coopers having electric power steering pump problems. They are prone to failure, needing replaced after some time, so mechanics know to check the cooling fan and other related parts if this happens for ensured safety. Another electrical issue many Mini Cooper owners are facing involves timing chains. Perhaps a result of not replacing the transmission fluid, timing chains can start rattling, especially when the engine is idling. It is a quick repair, but can cause other problems if ignored.

After 50,000 or so, Mini Coopers have been known to also experience water pump and thermostat housing leakages. These leaks can lead to other costly auto repairs, so drivers will pay the consequences if leaks in these areas go unnoticed for some time.

Does your BMW or MINI Cooper require some professional attention? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for BMW repair and factory car maintenance in Carmel, Indiana. We are German factory-trained mechanics with decades of experience specializing in European and German cars.

You Might Also Enjoy:

Most Reasonably Priced European Car Brands in 2020
Transmission Repair Solutions for European Car Owners
Routine Automotive Services Recommended Just for European Vehicles

European Automotive Repair Carmel
European Automotive Repair Carmel Indiana 317-577-0800

Factory Recommended Maintenance for Car Brakes

Routine vehicle maintenance is extremely important in order to maintain quality performance, safety, and dependability. Although there are several elements involved in proper automotive maintenance, brake care is among the most critical since they are a top safety feature in every vehicle. For this reason, their factory scheduled maintenance needs should never be ignored or neglected. Whether you are a brand new driver new to car care, or the owner of a primary vehicle that you depend on daily, it is important that you understand how to take good care of your car brakes for optimal safety, performance, and longevity.

Continue reading to learn about recommended car brake maintenance, including how to determine if your vehicle needs brake service or repair.

Car Brake Auto Service Carmel Indiana 317-571-0800
Car Brake Auto Service Carmel Indiana 317-571-0800

The Importance of Routine Car Brake Maintenance

In order to take good care of your brakes, you will need to provide routine maintenance, as well as focus on your driving habits. When driving, try not to start and stop suddenly, nor burn your brakes out by pushing the gas pedal while your car is in park. These are highly damaging to your overall braking system. In terms of routine maintenance, brakes require periodic pad changes, rotor inspections, brake fluid refills, and more. Most of these services should be implement by a professional mechanic who retains the proper skills and resources to ensure your vehicle remains a safe means of transportation.

How to Identify Problems With Car Brakes

In between routine factory scheduled maintenance, you will need to stay on top of any repairs you might need. In order to determine the condition of your car brakes without being a professional mechanic, simply look for some common signs. When your car brakes are in faulty condition, they will likely warn you somehow.  For example, when car brakes squeak when you apply pressure, this is an indication that your brake pads are wearing thin. But it can also mean a variety of other things as well.

If your brakes are squeaky, you must have them inspected immediately; otherwise, the brake damage will only worsen and potentially cost you more to repair. And if you continue to drive on bad brakes, not only is your safety in danger, but you can also permanently damage your car’s braking system. This could lead to ultimate brake failure and costly car brake replacement.

In addition to squeaky brakes, additional driving developments can indicate a problem. If you find your brakes slipping a bit when you use them, or you need to apply more or extended pressure to come to a complete stop, it could be a warning sign too. This is where a professional Carmel Indiana car mechanic can help. They can accurately diagnose any brake problem.

Get Your Car Brakes Inspected Annually

Be sure to have your brakes inspected annually, or at least according to your car’s factory recommendations found in the owners’ manual. In between scheduled car maintenance, if you ever suspect that there is a complication with your car brakes, tow your vehicle into a trusted mechanic immediately. A professional and licensed automotive mechanic has the knowledge and certifications to accurately identify brake issues and get you safely back on the road.

Automotive shops retain the latest technologies and resources to accurately diagnose brake problems in all make and model vehicles. In many cases, an Indianapolis auto repair shop will offer deals and payment plans to make the cost of repair more convenient or affordable for clients. For instance, many companies are known to eliminate the cost of inspection if you choose to do business with them. This can be savings up to three hundred dollars or more!

Do you own a European car that needs some brake maintenance? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for German Factory Trained factory scheduled maintenance in Carmel, Indiana. We only use top-of-the-line Bosch automotive parts and products to carry out our car maintenance services.

You Might Also Like:

The 4 Types of Car Brakes
Routine Automotive Services Recommended Just for European Vehicles
Top 5 Car Parts Affected By Cold Weather

European Automotive Repair Carmel
European Automotive Repair Carmel Indiana 317-577-0800

How to Change Your Car Oil and Air Filters

Routine air filter replacement and oil filter replacement are both vital for optimal vehicular performance and overall safety. Depending on the particular make and model of your car, air filter replacement is usually needed between 12,000 and 15,000 miles. But you don’t have to take your car into the shop for this if you are a hands-on kind of person. You can likely change your own oil and oil filter without the help of a professional mechanic!

Continue reading to learn how to change your car oil and air filters all in one go.

Indianapolis Car Maintenance and Auto Service 317-571-0800
Carmel Indiana European Car Maintenance and Service 317-571-0800

The 101 on DIY Automotive Filter Changes

What You Need

All you need in order to change your air filters is the right supplies and a little knowledge. Then, you are ready to change your car’s oil all by yourself. Acquire a new oil filter, an oil pan to store the dirty oil, a car jack, a socket set, a funnel, and a couple bottles of the motor oil your car uses. Safety goggles, rubber gloves, a flashlight, and a few clean cloths wouldn’t hurt either.

Instructions for Engine Filter Changes

Oil Filter Replacement

First, run your car engine for a few minutes to warm the oil up because warm oil flows easier. Then, lift your vehicle off the ground with the car jack and place the oil pan beneath your vehicle. Be sure you have used a car jack before, as they can pose certain dangers if you don’t know what you are doing.

Next, unscrew your oil cap located under the hood, and the oil drain plug beneath your car. This plug generally looks like a single bolt underneath your car’s oil compartment. Double check your vehicle owners’ manual for instructions on locating the oil drain plug.

Motor oil should be changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, or sooner depending on how often you drive.

Put on your rubber gloves and use a socket wrench to unscrew the drain plug a few rounds, then use your hands to unscrew the rest of the way. Allow all the dirty oil to drain out completely. Replace the drain plug and then change the oil filter.

Once this is all done, you can use your funnel to pour your new, clean oil into your engine. The next step is replacing the oil filter. Simply unscrew the old filter, allow any excess oil to drain, and then replace and tighten the filter. If you are not using paper filters, use a tiny bit of oil to lubricate the edges of the new filter before screwing it back into place.

Air Filter Replacement

Aside from oil filters, your vehicle has air filters that need replaced on a routine basis. These are inexpensive and can be purchased at any local automotive store or general store. Expect to pay anywhere from $15 to $20 per filter. If you neglect to change your air filters, overtime you will notice a major decrease in gas mileage and vehicular performance. Luckily, this is a maintenance job you can do all by yourself! It is a simple ten minute process that is easy to learn how to do. Just follow your owners’ manual instructions!

Need some help with your routine car maintenance needs? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for factory scheduled maintenance in Carmel, Indiana for European vehicles. Our German factory trained mechanics offer dealership quality European auto repair at neighborhood prices!

You Might Also Read:

The Seven Essential Automotive Fluids Every Vehicle Needs
Why You Should Take Routine Oil Changes Seriously
How to Correct an Overheating Car Engine

European Automotive Repair Carmel
European Automotive Repair Carmel Indiana 317-577-0800

Fundamental Tips for Cleaning a Car Engine

Car maintenance is crucial in order to maintain the performance value of your vehicle.  Cleaning out your car’s engine regularly is one way to ensure a longer life for your ride.  Continue reading to learn the basic DIY method to engine cleaning and where you can go for professional help, assistance, and advice, as well.

European Car Engine Repair Carmel Indiana
European Car Engine Repair and Service – Carmel Indiana 317-571-0800

Engine Cleaning Preparation

The first thing you want to do before you begin is find a safe spot to clean your car. This means finding an area where the soap, water, and dirt can run off your car without causing damage or danger. Always be sure it’s far away from storm drains as to not contaminate them. Have a spot prepared ahead of time where you can dump the sludge afterward without harming the environment or making a mess.

Next, you want to turn your car on and let it run for a few minutes, especially if it’s excessively dirty. Be sure to not let your engine get too hot, or you will not be able to touch it without getting burned. Once your engine is heat up, turn your car back off and remove the car keys from the ignition for extra safety.

Time to Get Your Hands Dirty

The next step involves hands-on engine work. First, disconnect the negative cable on the battery. Then do the same for the positive cable. Be sure to always do the negative cable first, and then proceed to the positive one.  Next, cover all electrical components with tarp or plastic bags, to avoid getting water in places that can damage your vehicle.

You are now ready to start wiping down the surface of the engine to remove all the loose debris and accumulation. It is suggested to use a stiff paint brush because the bristles are very effective at removing this type of dirt. 

Use a grease cutting dish soap and water solution to use as your cleaning agent for the engine. Begin to apply the solution to the surfaces of the engine with the paint brush or sponge. In the tougher areas, you may have to use an actual engine de-greaser solvent if the soapy water is not effective enough. You can purchase these products at your local automotive accessory shop.

Rinse and Dry

It is time to rinse the engine off at this point, so use light water pressure to accomplish this, such as a garden hose or spray gun. You have to allow the engine to dry completely, so let it sit for a few hours. Drying times vary, and could possibly take up to 24 hours to dry entirely. Turning a wet engine on is detrimental to your engine and car. Once it is dried, you can remove the plastic coverings and begin driving again!

Does your car engine need some professional attention? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for specialty automotive engine repair service in Carmel, Indiana. We are German factory trained mechanics who specialize in European auto service. Request a free estimate, anytime.

You Should Also Read:

How to Correct an Overheating Car Engine
Routine Automotive Services Recommended Just for European Vehicles
Transmission Repair Solutions for European Car Owners

European Automotive Repair Carmel
European Automotive Repair Carmel Indiana 317-577-0800

How to Get Transmission Repair for European Cars Cheaper Than the Dealer

Are you having transmission troubles with your German or European vehicle? Are you even sure it’s the transmission that causing problems in Indianapolis? If so, you need a skilled German factory trained mechanic who thoroughly understands European automotive transmission work. With over 50 years of hands-on experience, you can trust that Autohaus Dierolf knows European transmissions.

Continue below to learn how we can service and repair European automotive transmissions faster, better, and cheaper than the dealer and any other local competitors!

Carmel Indianapolis European Auto Repair
Carmel Indianapolis European Auto Repair 317-571-0800

Dealer-Level Transmission Service at a Fraction of the Cost

Here at Autohaus Dierolf, our German factory-trained automotive mechanics provide a wide range of dealer-level transmission repair and diagnostics for all make and model European and German vehicles. We can precisely diagnose an issue faster, and repair it cheaper than any local competitor, especially the car dealerships!

 Since 1968, we have helped countless Hoosiers with their vehicle transmission problems, and at the same time, have helped them save thousands of dollars on transmission repair. But it’s not always the transmission that needs work, even though all the signs might be pointing toward transmission repair. And our expert German factory-trained mechanics know this principle the best.

You see, dealerships and competitor auto shops purposely quote “ballpark” figures and estimates for transmission repairs, especially when it comes to European vehicles. They usually quote an average of $2200 or more because their strategy is to first dig deeper into the transmission so that they can come up with additional repairs to charge you for.

But as a family owned and operated business, Autohaus Dierolf understands the value of a dollar, and we never overcharge for auto services. Most often, our mechanics find there isn’t a problem with the transmission at all! That’s because what may seem like an issue with a car transmission is actually the result of several other minor factors. This is just one way we save customers money on transmission repair in Carmel, Indianapolis, Indiana!

Why Choose Autohaus Dierolf?

☑ European Automotive Specialists
☑ 50+ Years of Experience
☑ Economy-Based Prices
☑ Dealer-Level Diagnostics
☑ Modern Diagnostic Technology
☑ Auto Repair Coupons
☑ Family Owned and Operated
☑ Independently Owned Auto Shop
☑ In Business Since 1968
☑ Free Written Estimates
☑ Honest Midwestern Values

Looking to get a free estimate for transmission repair service in Indianapolis? Contact our Carmel, Indiana European auto repair shop at 317-571-0800 to set up an appointment.

You Might Also Like:

Transmission Repair Solutions for European Car Owners
How to Correct an Overheating Car Engine
Routine Automotive Services Recommended Just for European Vehicles

European Automotive Repair Carmel
European Automotive Repair Carmel Indiana 317-577-0800

How Does Tire Width Affect Gas Mileage in Cars?

Today, everyone is looking for the answer to better gas mileage.  Vehicle owners and drivers are on a constant hunt for secrets, miracle cures, rises in the economy, and blatant luck to reduce gas mileage, prices, and fuel consumption. There are several reasons why vehicles can get good or bad gas mileage. There are so many factors that affect this area of concern; however, there is one variable that is hardly discussed but highly influential when it comes to fuel mileage.  This variable is tire width.  Tires have a large influence on how a car or truck operates on the road.

Continue reading to learn how tire size can affect fuel economy and gas mileage on the road.

Fuel System Repair Carmel Indianapolis
Fuel System Repair and Car Maintenance Carmel, Indiana 317-571-0800

The 101 on Gas Mileage and Tire Care

There are two things to consider when thinking about tires and their effect on gas mileage; one is wind resistance, and the other is rolling resistance. When a car is driving at higher speeds, it experiences higher wind resistance; this means lower fuel economy. Rolling resistance is the impact the road has on the tires, and how it affects drivability. If you change the features (size and width) of your tires, it will then influence the interaction it has with the road, thus affecting the gas mileage. This is where tire width can begin to influence gas mileage.

Tire Size and Width Influences Gas Mileage

Many people believe by changing the height of a car’s tires, they can increase its fuel economy. This is not a reliable idea. You see, speedometers are specifically calibrated to the number of revolutions a set of tires makes per mile while driving.  If the original set of tires is replaced, the calibration will be off and changes in fuel economy will be blurred.  Shorter tires will calculate at higher gas mileage because they will make so many more revolutions per mile. This negatively affects fuel consumption because it makes the car’s engine work at a higher rpm to achieve the same speeds. Taller tires will do just the opposite while still offering an inaccurate reading.

Tire Width versus Gas Mileage

Tire width is one of the only tire size factors that can influence gas mileage in a positive way. For example, a narrow tire will have less wind resistance, rolling resistance, and weight, thus, increasing gas mileage. If choosing a narrower tire, be aware that they can make the car’s handling characteristics more difficult to control. It is best to always install the proper size tires for your particular vehicle.  A professional tire tech or mechanic will have no problem helping you figure this out. Also, keeping your tires fully inflated can improve gas mileage.

Do you need fuel system repair or factory scheduled maintenance for a European car in Carmel, Indianapolis, IN? Contact Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for the best deals around town!

More Reads to Check Out:

Top 5 Car Parts Affected By Cold Weather
How to Start the New Year With Better Fuel Mileage
Routine Automotive Services Recommended Just for European Vehicles

European Automotive Repair Carmel
European Automotive Repair Carmel Indiana 317-577-0800

How to Correct an Overheating Car Engine

The first rule to know is never drive an overheating vehicle under any circumstances. Not only is this dangerous to your safety and others, but it can also further damage the vehicle’s engine even more.  This obviously leads to more expensive car repair bills and a longer stay at the mechanic.  When a car does begin to show certain signs that it may be in distress, immediately act.  The sooner you acknowledge a problem with your ride, the better the chances are for an easier and cheaper repair. 

Continue reading to learn the basic instructions for what to do when your car engine overheats on the road while driving.

European Car Engine Repair Carmel Indianapolis
European Car Engine Repair and Service Carmel, Indiana

If Your Car Engine Begins to Overheat, Do This:

Pull the Car Over Immediately

As soon as you are aware that there is a problem with your car’s engine, pull to the side of the road and come to a complete stop.  Put your car into park, turn the engine off, and remove your car keys from the ignition (Be sure to keep your keys on you so you do not get locked out of your vehicle).  Certain clues that suggest your car engine is problematic or is overheating include smoke coming from the hood, engine temperature gauge reading is in the red, strange or loud noises, or smelling gasoline.  Any of these signs, and more, is signs that your car is in distress. If you absolutely must continue driving, allow the engine to cool completely, and then drive only short distances until you reach your destination.

Call a LICENSED Mechanic

Many people want to call a tow truck or a friend to get their car to a repair garage.  The better choice, however, is to just call a mechanic first because they usually offer free towing and vehicle pickups for paying customers.  This way, you avoid having to pay extra money for a tow truck and can take advantage of an all-inclusive deal.  If a car is overheating, it needs to be inspected and serviced by a licensed mechanic as soon as possible.  The longer the engine sits without a repair, the longer you will go without the use of a working vehicle!  Be sure to use a licensed and reputable car repair shop.  Look at company credentials and see if they offer any specials or coupons for car repair and service.

Explain How Your Engine Overheats

Once a mechanic is contacted, it is time to explain to them the situation. To do this, think about the style of driving you are doing when it starts to overheat. Is the car in an idle mode, such as sitting in traffic, when it overheats? Or does it overheat while exceeding certain speeds during interstate or highway driving? These clues can help a mechanic better diagnose the engine problem, making for a shorter stay at the shop.

European and German Car Engine Repair Services in Carmel, Indianapolis

Call Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for European car engine repair in Carmel, Indianapolis. We are German factory-trained automotive mechanics who specialize solely in European and British car repair.  You can speak with a licensed mechanic about your overheating car engine and get free estimates on our services and repairs. No matter what make and model your vehicle is our highly trained and certified auto repair mechanics can repair or service it with professional care.v

European Automotive Repair Carmel
European Automotive Repair Carmel Indiana 317-577-0800

When Do I Need to Change the Fluids in My Car?

If you were to refer to the owner’s manual of your vehicle, you may run into some confusion around the parts concerning the recommended maintenance and service schedules. This is because there is not just one simple factory schedule for your car in its manual. There is a schedule for “normal” driving, and a second schedule for “severe” driving. You see, the frequency at which you replace the fluids in your vehicle depends on the type of driving you do.

Continue reading to learn whether you are a normal or severe driver, as well as everything you need to know about your vehicle’s recommended fluid change schedule and how to get started at a trusted Carmel, Indiana mechanic near you.

Indianapolis Car Maintenance and Auto Service
Indianapolis Car Maintenance and Auto Service 317-571-0800

Normal Driving Versus Severe Driving

Before discussing the fluids that all vehicles require, and when to change these fluids, it is necessary to identify and understand the two types of driving and which types matches you. Most average drivers will simply need to follow the normal driving schedule. You are very likely a normal driver. But, rather than reading through the criteria of a normal driver, it is much easier to identify what severe driving is since normal is the more common type of driving. So, are you a severe driver? Check out the factors that will tell you so, below!

Severe drivers will exhibit all or most of the following habits or practices:

🚘 A vehicle is used for delivery or transportation purposes (i.e. pizza delivery, taxi cabs, food trucks, etc.).

🚘 Most excursions involve prolonged idling (i.e. stop and go traffic, rush hour, etc.).

🚘 Most excursions involve dusty and bumpy terrains (i.e. dirt roads, gravel, etc.).

🚘 A vehicle is used for hauling, towing, or carrying loads and freights.

🚘 Most driving trips are less than 10 miles, round-trip.

Automotive Fluid Changes for Normal Drivers

If you do not exhibit any of these driving habits or requirements, then you should follow the “normal” drivers schedule when it comes to fluid, filter, and lubricant changes. All vehicles require 7 vital fluids for safe driving, handling, and optimal performance. If you neglect to provide these fluid changes for your car or truck, it will quickly deteriorate and eventually breakdown. The seven fluids include motor oil, brake fluid, anti-freeze (coolant), power steering fluid, transmission fluid, battery fluid, and windshield wiper fluid.

When to Get Car Fluids Replaced

A car battery generally needs replaced every few years, depending on your driving and habits, and windshield wiper fluid can be re-filled as much as needed. All other fluids should be changed or refilled every six months or 5,000 miles, whichever comes first. Your local Carmel, Indianapolis car mechanic can answer any questions you have about factory scheduled maintenance for your vehicle. They retain the proper tools, training, knowledge, and resources to accurately assess your vehicle’s condition and make professional valuations and recommendations you can trust.

Auto Service and Maintenance for European Cars in Carmel, Indianapolis

Call Autohaus Dierolf at 317-571-0800 for European auto repair and service in Carmel, Indiana. Our German factory trained mechanics have more than 30 years of experience specializing in European make and model vehicles. We provide a wide range of automotive repairs and services, including factory scheduled maintenance and auto repair. Call 317-571-0800 for affordable and reputable auto maintenance in Carmel, IN today.

European Automotive Repair Carmel
European Automotive Repair Carmel Indiana 317-577-0800